Tuesday, April 8, 2014

When traveling
with portable oxygen, the first thing travelers should do is contact their
airline. Not all airlines allow the use of portable oxygen concentrators, so
that’s a very important first step. Travelers should also check with the
manufacturer to determine whether their specific oxygen concentrator is
approved for in-flight use.

Here’s what
passengers can expect when traveling with portable oxygen through TSA
checkpoints:

If a passenger
can disconnect from his or her portable oxygen, it’s recommended that the
passenger check the equipment as checked baggage whenever possible. This makes
the screening process simpler for all involved.

Passengers who
can disconnect are able to be screened using imaging technology or walk-through
metal detectors.

If a passenger
cannot disconnect, or chooses not to be screened by imaging technology or a
walk-through metal detector, he or she will be screened using a pat-down
procedure instead. A pat-down procedure is also used to resolve any alarms from
a metal detector or anomalies identified by imaging technology.

If a passenger is
bringing his or her portable oxygen concentrator in carry-on baggage, the
equipment will either undergo X-ray screening or inspection. If the passenger’s
respiratory equipment cannot be X-rayed and an inspection is done, it also will
be tested for traces of explosives. If explosive material is detected, the
passenger will have to under undergo additional screening.

Passengers are
encouraged to consult with their doctors to determine whether they can safely disconnect during screening. It is
important for a passenger to inform the officer conducting the screening
whether he or she can disconnect before the screening process begins. If an
officer insists that you disconnect, please request to speak with a supervisor
or manager.